The spectrum and treatment of angioedema

Am J Med. 2008 Apr;121(4):282-6. doi: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2007.09.024.

Abstract

Angioedema manifests as episodes of localized swelling in the dermis and submucosa. The key to successful management is detection and avoidance of triggers, early recognition of attacks, and aggressive airway management when warranted. Review of a patient's medication list may identify drugs that include angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blockers as the cause. Initial treatment in a patient presenting with most forms of angioedema includes antihistamines and glucocorticoids if required. Epinephrine should be administered if there is concern for laryngeal edema. Patients who have a known history of hereditary angioedema should receive C1 esterase inhibitor concentrate or fresh-frozen plasma.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Airway Obstruction / prevention & control*
  • Angioedema / epidemiology
  • Angioedema / immunology*
  • Angioedema / therapy*
  • Angioedemas, Hereditary / epidemiology
  • Angioedemas, Hereditary / immunology
  • Angioedemas, Hereditary / therapy
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Female
  • Histamine H1 Antagonists / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Laryngeal Edema / epidemiology
  • Laryngeal Edema / immunology
  • Laryngeal Edema / therapy
  • Male
  • Prognosis
  • Recurrence
  • Risk Assessment
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Histamine H1 Antagonists